How to Repair a Washer Shut Off Valve

by William Machin

Many washer valve repairs are done with an adjustable wrench.

Shutoff valves for the hot and cold water supply to a washing machine can develop leaks over time. If you notice water drips on the wall or floor, it's time to repair one or both valves. While shutoff valves for washers come in a variety of styles and types, all have certain components that are similar with regard to leaks — specifically, a packing nut and bushing at the stem for the handle. In most cases, repairing a leaky washer shutoff valve takes a short time.

1

Shut off the leaky valve, using the handle. Fit an adjustable wrench onto the flats of the packing nut at the base of the stem for the handle. Grip the handle with one hand and tighten the packing nut clockwise, using the wrench.

2

Open and close the handle several times. If the leak persists, the bushing below the packing nut must be replaced.

3

Shut off the hot water supply valve that's on the pipe just above the water heater. Touch the pipe with the back of one hand to determine if it's warm. Shut off that valve. Shut off the water supply to the house at the main valve. Open a hose spigot and allow the water to drain out of the pipes.

4

Loosen and remove the screw that secures the handle of the washer valve to the valve stem, using a screwdriver. Pull the handle off the end of the stem.

5

Loosen the packing nut counterclockwise with the wrench to detach it from the bonnet of the valve. Slide the nut off the end of the stem and set it aside. Remove the circular fiber or rubber bushing inside the valve's bonnet by sliding it off the end of the stem. Pry out the bushing with the tip of the screwdriver and side it off the end of the stem, if necessary.

6

Slide the new busing onto the stem and fit it into the bonnet. Slide the packing nut onto the stem and screw it onto the bonnet by hand to ensure the threads are aligned. Tighten the packing nut with the wrench.

7

Fit the handle at the end of the stem and attach it with the saved screw.

8

Shut off the hose spigot and slowly open the main water supply valve to the house. Open the hot water valve at the water heater.

Things You Will Need

Adjustable wrench

Screwdriver

Packing bushing

Tip

Take the old bushing to a plumbing supply or home center to obtain the correct replacement bushing.

Contact a plumber regarding replacing the washer shutoff valve if tightening the packing nut or replacing the bushing does not stop the leak.

Warning

Some manufacturers stipulate repair by a plumber to maintain the warranty of washer shutoff valve sets. Refer to the washing machine's warranty or valve warranty before doing any work on the valves.

About the Author

William Machin began work in construction at the age of 15, while still in high school. In 35 years, he's gained expertise in all phases of residential construction, retrofit and remodeling. His hobbies include horses, motorcycles, road racing and sport fishing. He studied architecture at Taft Junior College.

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